Key Takeaways
- Despite sharing the same last name and Saskatchewan roots, Tanner Howe has confirmed he has no family relation to hockey legend Gordie Howe.
- As a promising left winger for the Calgary Hitmen in the WHL, Tanner Howe has carved out his own impressive career path, including being drafted by the Pittsburgh Penguins in the second round.
- While not related by blood, Tanner considers Gordie Howe his favorite player and embodies similar traits of work ethic and passion that made “Mr. Hockey” legendary.
Fans of hockey often find themselves speculating about family ties, especially when a player shares a surname with a legend.
This has been the case for Tanner Howe, a talented Saskatchewan-born hockey player whose last name immediately evokes memories of the iconic Gordie Howe.
Is There Any Actual Relation?
The short answer is no. Tanner Howe has confirmed multiple times that he is not related to Gordie Howe. However, the comparisons and curiosity are understandable.
Gordie Howe, known as “Mr. Hockey,” hails from Floral, Saskatchewan, while Tanner was born in Prince Albert, less than 100 miles away.
Both are Saskatchewan boys with remarkable talent on the ice, which often leads to fans drawing parallels.
One fan humorously summarized the sentiment on Reddit:
“Is that Gordie’s great great great grandson?”
Via Reddit
Another responded quickly,
“No relation.”
Via Reddit
Yet another pointed out,
“But born less than 100 miles apart. Good ol’ Saskatchewan boys!”
Via Reddit
Tanner Howe’s Impressive Career
Despite the lack of a familial link, Tanner Howe’s hockey career is nothing short of impressive.
Currently playing for the Calgary Hitmen in the WHL, the young left winger has been turning heads with his skill, competitiveness, and hockey IQ.
In his junior career, Howe has already achieved notable milestones, including representing Canada on the international stage.
He’s a hard-working, two-way player who thrives under pressure, making him an asset for any team. Pittsburgh Penguins fans, in particular, are watching his progress closely, as Howe was drafted by the organization in the second round (46th overall).
Tanner’s Idolization Of Gordie
Interestingly, despite no biological ties, Tanner cites Gordie Howe as his favorite player.
While Tanner may not carry Gordie Howe’s bloodline, his relentless work ethic and passion for the game echo the traits that made “Mr. Hockey” a legend.
And in the hearts of hockey fans, the shared surname and Saskatchewan roots are enough to keep the connection alive.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Gordie Howe was a four-time Stanley Cup champion and 23-time NHL All-Star. His name graces arenas, bridges, and even a school, symbolizing his contributions to the sport and his community.
- Following his June draft selection at the Sphere in Las Vegas, Tanner Howe has maintained a busy schedule traveling across North America, splitting his time between his WHL commitments and various Penguins organizational activities.
- His summer was particularly packed as he immersed himself in the Pittsburgh system, participating in a series of developmental programs including the team’s development camp, Prospects Challenge, and main training camp.
